Japan’s emperor Akihito abdicates
Japanese Emperor Akihito abdicated on Tuesday thanking the people for their support over the last three decades and expressing hope for a peaceful future.
The popular Akihito, 85, the first monarch to abdicate in two centuries, had sought to ease the painful memories of World War Two and bring the monarchy closer to the people, including those marginalised in society.
Thousands of people gathered at the palace grounds to part of the historic moment. Akihito officially remains emperor until midnight, when the new Reiwa era, meaning “beautiful harmony”, begins.
He expressed hope that the new Reiwa era that begins from Wednesday will be peaceful and fruitful. He prayed for the peace and happiness of Japan and the people of the world.
The popular Akihito was the first monarch to take the Chrysanthemum Throne under a post-war constitution that defines the emperor as a symbol of the people without political power.
